Ajanta Caves - A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Ajanta Caves is one of the most amazing archaeological sites and tourist locations in India. Nestling in the inner fold of the Sahyardi hills and burried by thick forest all around in the shape of a mammoth horse shoe 3.5 m away from the village are the 30 rock-hewn caves of Ajanta carved into hillside rock which has been mesmerising visitors from all around the World. Ajanta caves are rich in paintings and sculpture is crafted by hand with only a hammer and chisel. These caves were built as secluded retreats of the Buddhist monks, who taught and performed rituals in the Chaityas and Viharas, the ancient seats of learning. Ajanta Caves which is about 100 kilometres from Aurangabad district in the state of Maharashtra is influenced by the Buddhist art and architecture. The Ajanta Caves is a UNESCO world heritage site and were carved out from the 2nd century BC to 6th century AD. The river Wagura, a mountain stream flows along the bottom of the ravine falling from a height of 200 ft making a series of waterfalls. The sound of the waterfalls can be heard in the caves. Ajanta Caves features scenes from the life of the Buddha and stories regarding his reincarnations. Ajanta Caves was discovered in the 19th century by a group of British army officers. Many of the Caves are quite dark and lighting is poor which makes one wonder how the craftsmen would have carved the beautiful sculptures. The carvings and the murals in the Ajanta shows all kinds of people from kings to slaves, women, men, children,flowers, plants, fruits, birds and beasts. Ajanta Caves also has carvings of 'Yakshas', 'Kinneras' (half human and half bird), 'Gandharvas' and 'Apsaras'.

How to reach Ajanta Caves?

The caves are in northern Maharastra around 400 kilometers from Mumbai. Ajanta Caves is a one and a half hours journey from the nearest railway station Jalgaon. One can also travel by air upto Aurangabad which is the nearest airport. Ajanta Caves are also connected to a network of excellent roadways with Mumbai, Pune, Nasik, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, Indore and Aurangabad.

Ajanta Cave Timings & Entrance fees

The Ajanta caves are opened on all days (even National Holidays) except Mondays. The timings for visitors are 9 AM to 5.30 PM. The entry fees for foreigners is $US10 for Ajanta caves. However, admission is free for Children younger than 15 years. The best time to visit Ajanta Caves is from November to March when it's cooler and dry.

Those visiting Ajanta Caves also can visit he historical places near by as they can be reached by road.

• Ellora Caves
• Aurangabad Caves
• Bibi-Ka-Maqbara